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Communities by Design

Communities by Design utilizes design thinking to support communities facing critical challenges.
2027 Design Assistance Team applications are now open.
Apply online or download the full application to get started.
Apply Today
About CxD

The Communities by Design (CxD) program was designed to provide a ready, applicable model for overcoming key challenges—from climate change and equity to housing and revitalization—and pave the way for communities to succeed.

Our methodology is adaptable

for unique community contexts,

from Indigenous and refugee communities

to rural towns and urban areas.

Over five decades of work across the globe,

CxD has impacted millions of people and

generated billions of dollars in sustainable development.

What is CxD’s process?

We receive requests from communities around the world facing challenges like housing, climate change, revitalization, and more. Our staff work to connect those communities with the right tools and resources to address their unique struggles. In some cases, a community could benefit from the support of a Design Assistance Team (DAT) project.

What are Design Assistance Teams (DATs)?

Design Assistance Teams are volunteer groups of architects and other experts chosen to support each community’s specific needs. Teams travel to communities to lead workshops and design studios that engage the public to create an action plan with recommendations for the future.

Start Your Community’s Journey Today!

Recognized Excellence

Awards
Organization of the Year

Core Values Awards, International Association for Public Participation, 2010

Platinum Award

Facilitation Impact Awards, International Association of Facilitators, 2013

Outstanding Program Award

Community Development Society, 2015

Social Advocacy Award

American Planning Association – Massachusetts Chapter, 2016

Leadership in Sustainability Award

American Planning Association, 2019

Gold Award, Facilitation Impact Awards

International Association of Facilitators, 2018

Excellence in Sustainability Award – Partner

American Planning Association, 2017

Excellence in Social impact Design Awards

Inscape Publico, 2015

‘Power of A’ Silver Award

ASAE, 2018

‘Power of A’ Silver Award

ASAE, 2013

"Thank you! The energy you brought to our community is unlike anything we've ever seen. The community is pumped up and ready for change."

COMMUNITY OF KAMAS, UT

“Our city has had the direct benefit of receiving assistance from Communities by Design. This experience permanently changed the city for the better”

NATHEN WEST, CITY MANAGER, PORT ANGELES, WA

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Resource Library

We’re working to digitize our collection of resources for architects, students, and community members.

Explore our work

50+ Years of Communities by Design

From housing affordability and disaster recovery to downtown revitalization and transportation, Communities by Design has helped communities tackle complex challenges for nearly six decades. Explore past projects by place or issue and access the reports and recommendations produced through each community process.

264 projects · 1967–2026 · 250 linked AIA reports

Project map

Explore Communities by Design projects geographically, then use the searchable library below to filter by subject matter, decade, and program.

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GIS map and project data by Paola Capo, Director of Resilience & Disaster Response, The American Institute of Architects (AIA).

Project library

Find a project

Browse the complete AIA CxD archive

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264 projects

Report links open on AIA's Community Hub. Some downloads require acceptance of AIA's copyright terms.

JavaScript is required for the interactive map and project filters. Use the complete AIA CxD archive link above to browse projects.

Also check out:

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2027 DAT Applications

2027 Design Assistance Team Program

The Call for Applications for the 2027 Design Assistance Team Program is now open.

Applications are due December 4, 2026.

How to Apply
Option 1: Apply Online

Complete and submit your application through the online application portal.

Apply Online
Option 2: Submit a PDF

Download the full application, complete and compile your materials, then email your completed PDF to communitiesbydesign@aia.org.

Download Application Submit Completed PDF
Informational Webinars

Learn more about the program and application process at one of our upcoming informational webinars.

October 7 at 2:00 p.m. October 21 at 2:00 p.m.
Questions?

Review the application FAQs or contact Erin Simmons at esimmons@aia.org with questions about the 2027 application process.

View Application FAQs

Contact

Start a Conversation

Contact CxD today to explore how your community might benefit from this program.

Send Us A Message

Support Our Work

Donations help us ensure that the communities with the greatest needs can access our tools, resources, and expertise at no cost.
Donate Now

2027 Design Assistance Team applications are now open.

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